How to Read the EnergyGuide Label
The yellow EnergyGuide label shows a model's estimated yearly energy cost, where it sits among similar models and its yearly kWh use, all set by an FTC rule.
By Liam McCabeContributing writer.
On this page
The short answer
The EnergyGuide label is the yellow tag on many home appliances. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires it under its Energy Labeling Rule (16 CFR Part 305). Read it in this order:
- Estimated yearly energy cost: the big dollar figure, worked out from the model's tested energy use and a national average energy price.
- The cost range: a scale with the lowest and highest yearly cost of similar models. The closer the marker sits to the low end, the less the model costs to run compared with its peers.
- Estimated yearly electricity use: the model's energy use in kWh per year. Multiply it by your own rate for a closer estimate of your bill.
The label also names the model number and size, and it may carry the ENERGY STAR logo in the bottom right corner if the model is certified.
Which products carry it
The rule lists the products whose websites must show the label for each model: refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, water heaters, pool heaters, room and portable air conditioners, ceiling fans, central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces and televisions. Lamps use a different label, Lighting Facts.
Online sellers must show an image of the label, or a link to it, for each model, and makers must keep each label online for six months after production stops.
What the cost assumes
The cost is not your bill. Each label states the energy price it assumes:
| Product | Price used on the label |
|---|---|
| Refrigerators, freezers, washers, dishwashers, water heaters | 14 cents per kWh |
| Room and portable air conditioners | 13 cents per kWh |
| Televisions | 16 cents per kWh, 5 hours on and 19 hours standby per day |
| Ceiling fans | 12 cents per kWh, 6.4 hours per day |
Clothes washer labels also assume a set number of loads a week. If your rate is higher or lower than the label's, your cost moves the same way.
Comparing refrigerators
Refrigerator labels show two ranges: one for all models of similar size and one for models with similar features, such as a top-mounted freezer with no ice dispenser. The label says to compare only labels with yellow numbers, which are based on the same test procedure.
The ranges come from tables in the rule. For top-freezer refrigerators with automatic defrost and no door ice, for example:
| Size (cu ft) | Yearly cost range |
|---|---|
| Under 10.5 | $40 to $62 |
| 16.5 to 18.4 | $49 to $70 |
| 20.5 to 22.4 | $51 to $76 |
| 24.5 to 26.4 | $66 to $81 |
If a new model's cost falls outside the published range, the maker leaves it off the scale and adds a note that its cost was not available when the range was published. A refrigerator outside only the similar-features range stays on the scale, marked with a triangle. The rule says the FTC will publish revised ranges and energy prices in 2027.
Using it on Wiki Shopping
Of the 235 refrigerators on Wiki Shopping on October 27, 2026, 27 list ENERGY STAR certification. When comparing two models, open each maker's EnergyGuide label and compare the yearly kWh, then apply your own electricity rate.
How we count
The ENERGY STAR count is read from each refrigerator's store listing; refrigerators that do not state it are left out. Label facts and figures are from the FTC's rule as published in the eCFR, current to October 22, 2026.
Shop by spec
Refrigerators
Single Door, Under 4 cu ft, Black
- Retro Charm - Elevate your space with this sleek and stylish small retro fridge. The eye-catching design infuses Retro Charm into any room. Its Compact Size and Stylish Design make it a great addition to your bedroom, office, or dorm room.
- Spacious Design - Featuring a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity, this compact fridge offers plenty of storage for bottles, cans, snacks, and more. The space-saving flush back design allows for versatile placement, making it perfect for smaller spaces.
- Organized Storage - Equipped with 2 glass shelves and a handy 2L door basket for large bottles, this small fridge provides Organized Storage for your drinks and snacks, along with a built-in can dispenser.
- Chiller Compartment - This mini fridge includes a spacious Chiller Compartment complete with an ice cube tray, so you have everything you need, all in one space.
- Practical Style - Perfect for entertaining, this small retro refrigerator comes with a built-in bottle opener on the side for quick and easy access to your favorite beverages. The easy-open pull handle adds to the retro vibe, reminiscent of classic designs from the past.
- Customizable Design Options - Tailor this retro fridge to suit your space and style with the reversible door feature that offers flexible placement options.
French Door, 20 cu ft and up, Stainless Steel
- COLOR CUSTOMIZATION: Customize the design of your french door french door refrigerator with changeable door panels. Choose from a variety of colors and two finishes to create a space that fits your style.
- AUTOFILL WATER PTICHER: A built-in pitcher that automatically refills with filtered water and the option to infuse with a flavor of your choice.
- DUAL ICE MAKER WITH ICE BITES: Enjoy your favorite beverage with your choice of ice. Select from cubed ice or Ice Bites that chill your drink faster.
- MODERN DESIGN: Flat panel door design with easy-to-open recessed handles blends into your cabinetry to give you a modern built-in-look.
- WiFi CONNECTIVITY: Wi-Fi connectivity on your fridge isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s essential for safety and energy conservation. You’ll get immediate notifications if the temperature drops due to a power outage or if you accidentally leave the door open.
French Door, 10 to 19.9 cu ft, Stainless Steel
- COUNTER DEPTH: Built-in look for a seamless fit. The smooth and streamlined exterior design features beautiful flat doors and easy-to-open recessed handles that blend seamlessly into your cabinetry, adding function and style to your kitchen.
- WiFi CONNECTIVITY: Wi-Fi connectivity on your fridge isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s essential for safety and energy conservation. You’ll get immediate notifications if the temperature drops due to a power outage or if you accidentally leave the door open.
- TWIN COOLING PLUS: Independent fridge and freezer controls keep food fresher, longer.
- ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED: Eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
- FINGERPRINT-RESISTANT FINISH: Finish that withstands everyday smudges so you spend less time cleaning.
French Door, 20 cu ft and up, 36 in and up, Stainless Steel
- Large 27.9 Cu. Ft. Capacity – Spacious interior with flexible storage, ideal for families and high-volume households.
- External Water & Ice Dispenser – Provides cold filtered water plus cubed and crushed ice conveniently from the front door.
- Depth With Door Open (Maximum 48.38 in.) – Designed for standard kitchen layouts while allowing full door swing for easy access.
- Advanced Cooling Technology – Multi-Air Flow system ensures consistent temperatures throughout the refrigerator to keep food fresh longer.